4/11/2005 | On an absolutely beautiful 70 degree day in early spring I had to go out and hit the rock somewhere. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to play the full Monty 5 hour round so I headed to Willow Springs. You know that course you can see from I-70 near MD 32? Yea that’s the one. Willow Springs is by no means is a resort course - only a step up from a patch, however the conditions are good enough to work out your game, yet challenging enough to make you face some tough shots both off the tee and an approach or two. The number one handicap hole is the one you can see from the road - a par 4 (399 from the tips) which requires a decent drive and good approach with sand in front and "love grass" long. Number 2 is a 188 par 3 usually into the wind. Number 3 requires a well placed drive of about 200 yards usually into the wind. Several other holes will offer you a visual challenge of hitting that good shot over water or other hazards. With 8 par 4’s and 10 par 3’s you can actually break 70 here if you’re hitting your irons well and making those putts. Hey you CAN break 70…well, at least 80 for now! Willow Springs – a good practice play if you don’t have a lot to time to play a full 18 – usually plays in about 3 hours, however be prepared to deal with many “non golfing” types who are just out for some fun. But hey, you’re only out for practice and fun here anyway so who cares? Lefty |